I'd go ahead and tape the ears. What I do is shave the inner and outer ear completely taking off all fringe (no, not very attractive but you want as much weight off as possible and besides, the hair will grow back). I then fold the ear long way like a taco and tape with medical tape. I leave on for 24 hours and take off. Ears should stand and if they fall, repeat the method.
As for the pee pads, the kitchen area may be too big for your girls. I'd get an ex-pen and lay 2 pee pads in there. There is plenty of room for them to lay on the other side.
Potty training takes time and some will catch on quick while others seem to never "get" it.
